A novel screening tool is effective in the early detection of peripheral nerve injury with elbow and forearm trauma subjects: A case series.

BACKGROUND

Traumatic elbow and forearm injuries involving a peripheral nerve injury are complex and costly due to combined nerve and soft tissue involvement, often resulting in sensory, motor, and pain impairments that limit daily activities, work, and social participation. Early, comprehensive assessment of peripheral nerve injury associated with elbow or forearm trauma is therefore essential to optimize patient outcomes.

PURPOSE: This case series aims to describe the development and practicality of the Upper Extremity Peripheral Nerve Screen (UEPNS) for individuals post elbow/forearm trauma.

STUDY

DESIGN

Prospective Case series.

METHODS

Tool development was informed through recommendations, literature review and clinical experience. Face validity was examined through interviews and survey of hand therapists. A pilot study with clinicians and a case series involving three subjects with elbow trauma was used to examine practicality.

RESULTS

UEPNS items were judged to have good face validity, and administration was considered practical by pilot testing. Early identification of peripheral nerve injury occurred in three subjects with elbow/forearm trauma and guided subsequent intervention planning.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest the UEPNS is a practical screening tool with positive outcomes in identifying a peripheral nerve injury in patients with elbow/forearm trauma and measuring symptoms over the duration of the subject's treatment.